Cesar Luis Menotti who coached Barcelona between 1983 and 1984 – thinks that Messi is mentally burnt out, and reckons that he needs to rediscover his “joy” of playing for Barcelona. Messi has faced criticism for a lacklustre showing in Barca’s UEFA Champions League exit to La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid at the quarter-final stage last week. It’s normal when there are a lot of games and he has many obligations" he said.

The diminutive Argentine who has been named the world's best player 4 times, failed to reach his usual high standards as Barcelona crashed to a 1-0 defeat at Granada on Saturday. That result severely hinders their hopes of retaining the Spanish title. Barca sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta also leapt to Messi’s defence earlier this week, insisting that all is well with the 26-year-old despite his slump in form. Will Messi come back stronger?